Do older Markham homes need a 200-amp upgrade for an EV charger?Not always. A licensed electrical contractor should do a load calculation first. If the panel lacks capacity, an EV energy management system, permitted under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, can pause charging when the home is busy and may avoid an upgrade. A panel upgrade from 100 to 200 amps typically costs about $1,500 to $3,500 or more, and an Alectra service upgrade can add a few thousand to over $10,000. All of it needs an ESA permit.
Many homes in Milliken Mills, Raymerville, Thornhill and German Mills were built with 100-amp service. Adding a Level 2 charger, a heat pump or an induction range can push that panel to its limit.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps buyers ask the right electrical questions before they firm up.
Start with a load calculation
Empty breaker slots do not mean spare capacity. A licensed electrical contractor calculates peak demand from your actual circuits. Alectra suggests giving the contractor at least 12 months of electricity data from your account.
Three paths
| Path | When it fits | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charger on the existing panel | Load calculation shows capacity | Charger and installation only |
| Energy management system | Panel is close to capacity | Often less than an upgrade |
| Panel upgrade to 200 amps | Multiple large loads planned | About $1,500 to $3,500+, plus any service upgrade |
Permits and the utility
- Only a licensed electrical contractor can do the work, and they file for an ESA permit.
- For a service upgrade, the contractor applies to Alectra, which checks whether its equipment can support it.
- If not, Alectra provides a design and cost, which may include trenching for underground service.
- The change-over usually means a power outage of several hours.
Need a home ready for your EV?
Michael John Lau can short-list homes with the electrical capacity you need.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
What it means when buying or selling
Buyers who plan to add an EV, heat pump or air conditioning should ask for the panel size and age at the showing. Sellers with a 200-amp panel or a permitted charger can mention it in the listing, with the ESA records ready.
Before you offer
- Check the service size on the main breaker.
- Ask about any electrical permits and the panel’s age.
- Get a contractor’s estimate if a charger is a must-have.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you buy.
The right electrical plan makes an older home ready for what comes next. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install a Level 2 charger on a 100-amp panel?
Sometimes. A load calculation decides, and an energy management system may help.
How much is a 200-amp upgrade in Markham?
About $1,500 to $3,500 or more, plus any Alectra service upgrade costs.
Do I need a permit for an EV charger?
Yes. A licensed electrical contractor files for an ESA permit.
What is an EV energy management system?
A device that reduces or pauses charging to keep the home under its capacity.
Who handles the utility side?
Your contractor applies to Alectra, which assesses the service.
Does a 200-amp panel help resale?
It can appeal to buyers planning EVs or heat pumps.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Costs, the load calculation, ESA permits, energy management systems and the Alectra process are from Alectra's homeowner EV charger guide (September 2025). Confirm costs with a licensed electrical contractor. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
